Tournaments

Rio 2016 Olympic Games

Patience and determination, Han Ying books last eight place

21 Mar 2017

Determined, a resolute approach those were the qualities displayed in abundance as Germany’s Han Ying booked her place in the quarter-final stage of the Women’s Singles event at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, following her fourth round success on the afternoon of Monday 8th August.

It was a contest that required the Expedite Rule to be introduced, serves being alternate and the receiver winning the point if making an effective 13th return. Eventually Han Ying emerged successful in five games (11-4, 11-4, 8-11, 11-13, 13-11).

Han Ying eventually overcame Li Xue (Photo: Rémy Gros)

by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

“It was so difficult playing against Li Xue, the match was much harder than the result might suggest”, said Han Ying. “Long points it is mentally very tiring, most importantly you have to believe in yourself.”

Perseverance and patience eventually won the day.

Make Changes

“Tactically when you are playing under the Expedite Rule you must be prepared to make changes”, explained Han Ying. “When you are serving and you need to attack sometimes you must be patient and wait; on other occasions you need to attack earlier in the rally; today when receiving service I kept telling myself that I must not lose!”

Success for one defender against another of the same art[ as matters progressed in the top half of the draw in the fourth round of the Women’s Singles event, there was success for a backspin artiste again a player of the top spin variety.